What would you anticipate a moderator doing to increase participation Mark? I can't think of anything.
I'm not sure. Here are a few ideas:
Clean up the sticky threads. They are full of broken links and probably outdated information.
Create or solicit the creation of some updated How-To threads centered around Disney Photography. Or maybe make them collaborative threads like "How do you shoot.......at Disney parks?"
Other photography forums encourage participation with assignments. Similar to PrincessInOz's "What I'm focused on" threads, but designed to be current. For example, a moderator could created (or solicit the creation) of monthly assignment threads. The themes are usually a little narrower and the intent is to encourage people to go out and take pictures specifically for the assignment. Some examples might include "flowers", "buildings", "selfies", or "water".
I also think that a moderator encouraging growth and traffic should accept the fact that cellphone photography has become the dominant form of photography. For that reason, I'd avoid topics that don't work well with cellphones like long exposure, panning shots, or stuff like that.
Another common thread topic that I don't see here are critique threads. I'm not sure how you'd get people to start doing them except by leading by example and quietly reaching out to others to get the ball rolling. These are typically in the form of "Here's my picture of x? What do you like most about it? What areas do you think could be most improved? How else would you shoot a similar shot?"
Oh, and don't forget the photo contests. Those you to be popular here. This week's (or month's until you get enough participation) contest is "Attractions opened since 2015", "Character photos", "Attractions that no longer exist", "Signs", "Resorts", "Disney meals", or whatever. It has been so long, I don't remember what topics were used.
But those are just my thoughts. I would imagine that a new moderator would ask the forum and see what current members are interested in seeing. That probably aligns well with what would attract newer members.
I think you'd do a great job, Kathy.